| Muraena is another innovative idea for littoral
and counter terror warfare is proposed by HDW for submarines.
The system is a hoistable, mast-mounted automatic gun designed
specifically for submarines. HDW expects to complete the system
development by 2007. The unique design enables the submarine
to use lethal force without having to surface, therefore maintaining
the element of surprise. The hoistable mast, designed by Gabler
Maschinebau, is fitted wit a Mauser 30mm automatic gun (RMK
30x230) from Rheinmetall Waffe Munition (Mauser Werke) without
having to surface. The gun can be operated from periscope depth,
enabling the submarine to remain underwater and not expose itself
to hostile small arms, RPG or missile fire. The gun is accommodated
in the submarine's super structure, in a pressure-tight container
and can be hoisted hydraulically like a snorkel. For a gun of
this calibre to be installed on top of a hoistable mast, it
is essential for it to be recoilless. The gun has already been
tested on a light armored vehicle.
|
